Ultrasound Scan When Hernia Occurs If you have a lump that may or may not be a hernia, our ultrasound groin scan can help to diagnose the problem. We use high-frequency sound waves to produce an image of inguinal and femoral hernias as well as your abdominal muscle and surrounding tissue wall to ensure no internal hernias can be found. A hernia is where fatty tissue pokes out caused by repeated strain. This is a safe, pain-free procedure that uses ultrasound technology to examine a possible hernia. Most hernias can be identified without the need for a diagnostic scan; however, if your symptoms are inconclusive, this groin scan from Ultrasound Plus should give you an answer. Hernias are more common through ageing and repeated strain, so once we have determined where the hernia is, we can help you find the best way to treat it. Hernias most commonly affect the groin region at the top of the inner thigh. However, we can also scan your abdomen (tummy) for suspected hernias. You will also find that hernias are common near a surgical wound; this is where your body pushes on the open surgery incision; these are known as incisional hernias. `What Is A Hernia? A hernia occurs when an internal part of your body (such as fatty tissue or a part of your bowel) pokes through the surrounding muscle or tissue wall. Hernias may cause a lump to appear, especially when you cough or put a strain on your body. This lump can usually be pushed back in. Sometimes the hernia can be caused by internal organs pushing their way to the surface; men are much more likely to have a hernia than women, more women tend to avoid the common types of hernia. The particular type of hernia that affects women more is the femoral hernias; this is because it is very close to your femoral artery and vein, the main blood vessels in your thigh. The health conditions associated with this type of hernia can be severe. There are several different types of hernia, including: Inguinal Hernia – Affects the groin. More common in men. Femoral Hernia – Affects the groin. More common in women. Umbilical Hernia – Affects the tummy (near the belly button). Hernias are often symptomless, but in some cases, they can be very painful. Other possible symptoms – which would indicate that the hernia has become a medical emergency and requires a visit to the hospital – include constipation and vomiting. Hernias do affect more men than women. What Is The Purpose Of A Hernia Scan? When it comes to hernias, your doctor may suggest waiting and seeing whether it rectifies itself. This can happen by wearing a support truss that helps reduce swelling and any other symptoms; you should always check with your doctor first to ensure the right product is used to relieve symptoms. When it comes to children with hernias, a doctor might try and apply pressure to the abdomen or groin to reduce the bulge before contemplating surgery. Enlarging or painful hernias usually require surgery to relieve discomfort and prevent serious complications. Watchful waiting of these kinds of hernias might not always offer any form of recovery; this means having an ultrasound performed will help decide. There are two general types of hernia operations — open hernia repair and minimally invasive hernia repair. These are both the most common type of surgery associated with hernias. If you suspect you have a hernia but are unsure, we can check using the same ultrasound technology used to perform pregnancy scans. We recommend our hernia scan if you lump your groin or abdomen, and you want to confirm whether or not a hernia has caused it. If we find that it is something else, we will instruct you on what to do next. After our examination, we will give you a full report to pass on to your doctor.